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The Debate
The Debate is our home for the best opinions from around Asia. Whether it is negotiating with Iran, responding to North Korean provocations, discussing Japan's looming demographic issues, or considering the new balance of power in the Asia-Pacific, some of the region's leading thinkers offer their take.
A Sovereign Iraq Is Key to Securing India’s Energy Industry
By Michael Haddad
India can support a sovereign Iraq to bolster its energy security.
How Taiwan Battles the Coronavirus
By Christine Chiou
Taiwan is living proof that control of an emerging virus can be achieved through science, technology, and democratic governance.
Afghanistan Needs the World’s Help to Fight COVID-19
By Timothy Bishop
Having already lived through decades of war, Afghans are now bracing themselves for another battle against COVID-19. The world cannot stand idly by.
The International Community Must Put a Spotlight on Tajikistan’s Human Rights Record
By Scott Martin
Silencing opposition figures, independent voices, and those defending the detained -- a spotlight must be shone on the Tajik government’s human rights record.
An Open Letter to the People of the United States From 100 Chinese Scholars
“Facing the most dangerous infectious disease in a century, politicized criticisms help neither China, the U.S., nor the world to curb the spread of the virus.”
Book Review: ‘Trumped: Emerging Powers in a Post-American World’
By Joy Mitra
A new book examines global order in the 21st century.
Trump Adds to Asian-Americans’ Fears
By Seashia Vang
We already have an epic health crisis; we don’t need a racialized social crisis as well.
South Korea: Cyberbullying Amid Coronavirus
By Justin Fendos
Some online trolls seem determined to infuse Korean politics and COVID-19 with racial tensions.
Amid COVID-19 Crisis, Southeast Asia’s Migrant Workers Fall Through the Cracks
By Jasmine Chia and Yong Poh Han
In Thailand and Singapore, a public health crisis is challenging the typical delineations of citizenship.
COVID-19: As China Recovers, Will Its Economy Follow?
By Stephen Nagy
Will COVID-19 mark a turning point for China?
Suspending Sanctions on Iran During the COVID-19 Crisis Serves American Interests
By Lucille Greer
A temporary suspension of sanctions now will serve the United States well in future negotiations with Iran.
A Rohingya Coronavirus Catastrophe Looms if Their Internet Blackout Continues
By Sirazul Islam
Leaving the group cut off from the outside world leaves them especially vulnerable to COVID-19.